Senior Packaging Development Manager

The Kraft Heinz Company; Glenview (IL); On-site; USD 104,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The Kraft Heinz Company is seeking a Manager, R&D – Packaging Development in Glenview, IL to lead packaging developers and oversee contractors. You will drive development from concept to commercialization, balancing technical depth with business needs and operational feasibility.

Ideal candidates bring a strong background in packaging engineering, project leadership, and experience in CPG packaging programs, including foodservice formats. Strong communication and collaboration are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or higher in Packaging/Engineering with 6+ years packaging development experience.
• Experience leading teams and managing people.
• Ability to lead complex packaging projects.
• Strong knowledge of packaging materials, equipment, interactions, and lab test methods.
• Excellent communication, influencing, critical thinking, project management, and problem-solving.
• Willingness to travel up to 30%.

Responsibilities

• Directly lead a team of Packaging developers and contractors.
• Lead packaging development and commercialization of materials and packaging systems to deliver short- and long-term business objectives.
• Manage technical timelines, communicate progress clearly, elevate risks, and develop contingency plans.
• Identify, define, and solve technical packaging challenges meeting operational and customer requirements.
• Ensure packaging solutions are feasible, manufacturable, and fit for purpose, especially in foodservice formats.
• Lead and/or support developers leading packaging testing, qualification, and commercialization with cross-functional teams.
• Develop junior team members through development plans and workload balancing.
• Influence project direction with Operations, Marketing, and cross-functional partners.
• Translate research findings into clear business implications and impact.

Skills

People leadership

Project management

Communication

DOE

Statistical analysis

Education

BS/MS in Packaging/Engineering

Tools

Laboratory testing methods

Job description

The Kraft Heinz Company is seeking a Manager, R&D – Packaging Development in Glenview, IL to lead packaging developers and oversee contractors. You will drive development from concept to commercialization, balancing technical depth with business needs and operational feasibility.

Ideal candidates bring a strong background in packaging engineering, project leadership, and experience in CPG packaging programs, including foodservice formats. Strong communication and collaboration are essential.